🍒 Ingredients:
For the Cherry Jam Filling:
- 500 g frozen cherries
- 70 g (6 tbsp / 2.5 oz) cornstarch
- 150 g (0.8 cups / 5 oz) sugar
- 150 ml (0.7 cups / 5 oz) water
For the Dough:
- 3 egg yolks
- A pinch of salt
- 80 g (6 tbsp / 2.8 oz) powdered sugar
- 80 g (1 stick) melted butter
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 200 g (1 2/3 cups) flour
- 1 tsp baking powder
(Set aside a small portion of dough and freeze it for 15 minutes.)
For the Cream Filling:
- 500 g Greek yogurt
- 50 g (4 tbsp / 1.7 oz) cornstarch
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
Meringue:
- 3 egg whites
- A pinch of salt
- 130 g (0.7 cups / 4.5 oz) sugar
🧑🍳 Preparation:
1. Cherry Jam Filling:
In a saucepan, combine the frozen cherries, sugar, and water. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat. Gradually stir in the cornstarch, ensuring no lumps form. Cook for 3–5 minutes until the mixture thickens into a glossy jam-like consistency. Set aside to cool completely.
2. Prepare the Dough:
In a mixing bowl, whisk the egg yolks with a pinch of salt and powdered sugar until the mixture is pale and creamy. Gradually add the melted butter and vanilla extract, mixing well. Sift the flour and baking powder into the wet ingredients, then knead gently to form a soft dough. Separate a small portion of the dough (about 1/3), wrap it in plastic, and place it in the freezer for 15 minutes.
3. Cream Filling:
In a bowl, mix Greek yogurt, cornstarch, and vanilla extract until smooth. In a separate bowl, beat the egg whites with a pinch of salt until foamy. Gradually add sugar while beating until stiff peaks form. Gently fold the meringue into the yogurt mixture, ensuring the cream stays light and airy.
4. Assemble the Cake:
Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F) and grease a 20 cm (8-inch) baking pan.
- Spread 2/3 of the dough evenly across the base of the pan, pressing it down lightly.
- Pour the cooled cherry jam over the dough layer, spreading it evenly.
- Top with the yogurt cream mixture, smoothing the surface.
- Grate the frozen dough over the top to create a crumbly, textured layer.
5. Bake:
Place the assembled cake in the preheated oven and bake for about 40 minutes or until the top is golden and the filling is set. The cake should rise evenly and emit a delightful aroma.
6. Cool and Serve:
Allow the cake to cool completely before slicing to ensure clean, neat layers. Serve it as is or dusted with powdered sugar for an elegant finish.
Enjoy this irresistible yogurt cake that combines creamy, tangy yogurt, sweet cherry filling, and a buttery crumbly crust. Perfect for any occasion! Bon appétit! 🍰
